Sat, 29 Mar 2025

Sat, 29 Mar 2025 'A noose around our neck': Residents driven out by UK's largest road tunnel

Those living on the Lower Thames Crossing route tell of their despair at being uprooted.

* The Lower Thames Crossing, a £10bn road project, will disrupt the lives of hundreds of people in Essex and Kent.
* Many residents have already been forced to leave their homes due to the pressures brought on by knowing the road is going through the area.
* Jackie Thatcher, 75, has lived in her home for 38 years but faces a choice between selling up or living next to a major road.
* Alan Rouse, 76, was offered £1.2m for his house but was told it would be demolished and he would have to leave by November.
* Campaigners are concerned about the impact on wildlife, with ancient woodland set to be destroyed when works begin in 2026.
* Tony and Leigh Hughes fear that the construction of a green bridge near their home will disrupt both residents and wildlife.
* National Highways insists its project will bring significant benefits but acknowledges there will be an impact on properties along the route.
* The project aims to reduce traffic congestion on the Dartford Crossing by 20% and provide an alternative route for commuters.
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